Man charged over flight attendant’s death granted bail

A man accused of causing the death of a 28-year-old flight attendant in a motor vehicle accident in Nadi has been granted bail with strict conditions by the Nadi Magistrate’s Court.

Makario Namotu Vilimotama appeared before Magistrate Talei Kean during a special court sitting this morning charged with one count of manslaughter.

Police alleged Vilimotama was driving a vehicle involved in an accident at Martintar on the morning of March 28, resulting in the death of Mary Theresa Lucinta Evans.

The court heard the alleged conduct was reckless and posed a risk of serious harm to the victim.

Vilimotama was represented by lawyers Peceli Heritage and Filimoni Daveta, while John Vaurasi appeared for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).

Mr Vaurasi objected to bail, saying the matter was an indictable offence and should be transferred to the High Court.

Mr Heritage told the court his client had no previous convictions apart from an old domestic violence matter. He said Vilimotama was not a flight risk and had cooperated with Police during investigations.

He also told the court the accused had informed his father, who is a police officer, about the incident. Mr Heritage said his client had suffered from asthma since childhood and was prepared to comply with a $2000 cash bail and provide two sureties.

Mr Daveta submitted that if Vilimotama was remanded in custody, he could spend about four months in custody before the matter proceeded and his employment could be affected.

Magistrate Kean questioned the prosecution about the delay in bringing the matter to court, noting the incident occurred in March.

Mr Vaurasi said the sanctioning process involved two stages. He also said the offence carried a maximum penalty of 25 years' imprisonment and alleged the accused could interfere with State witnesses.

Magistrate Kean said she was not satisfied with the prosecution’s objections and granted bail with strict conditions.

The bail conditions include a $2000 cash bail, two sureties, a curfew from 7pm to 5am, and reporting to Namaka Police Station. The accused was also ordered not to interfere with State witnesses or change his residential address. Sureties were bonded at $600 each.

The matter has been transferred to the Lautoka High Court and will be called on May 28.